quickview
Obama Secret Order Authorizes Cybersecurity Strikebacks
Secret policy details how military units may be used to launch offensive cyberoperations in the wake of online attacks against the United States
A secret directive, signed by President Obama in mid-October, has authorized the military to help battle cyber attacks launched against the United States.
Known as Presidential Policy Directive 20, the classified document "establishes a broad and strict set of standards to guide the operations of federal agencies in confronting threats in cyberspace," The Washington Post first reported.
The policy reportedly includes privacy and data security safeguards for U.S. citizens and foreign allies, and also requires that any actions comply with international laws of war. Ultimately, the policy -- which updates a 2004 presidential directive -- is meant to make clear exactly what can and cannot be done.
...
